How can I learn about the history of the Philippines?
The Philippines has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is believed that the first inhabitants of the Philippines were the Negritos, who arrived on the islands around 50,000 years ago. Around 3,000 years ago, the Austronesian peoples arrived and settled in the islands. These peoples brought with them agriculture, language, and culture. The arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century brought Christianity, Western culture, and colonization. The Philippines gained independence from the United States in 1946.